Skilled sheet metal workers use tools and equipment to fabricate building components and assemble those components into a finished system at the project site. There are both manually operated and powered equipment that is used to complete the fabrication of components. These may include manual sheet metal breaks as well as powered sheet metal brakes and powered sheet metal shears.

In addition to fabricating trim pieces and duct work, sheet metal workers have the opportunity to create ornate finished pieces from different metals. They will work with different metal types including aluminum and steel, but also have the opportunity to work with copper, zinc and other specialized metals.

Being employed as a sheet metal worker give opportunities to work on designing and creating unique and ornate products. Unique products including copper scupper boxes and leader heads as well as curved metal trim pieces give opportunities for individuals who enjoy using creativity in their jobs the chance to showcase their skills and talents. Many older structures including churches and government buildings require skilled sheet metal workers to be able to fabricate pieces that can match historical features on those buildings.

Sheet metal components are a critical component of almost every building. Whether the building is a new construction structure or it is a structure with historical significance, sheet metal trim and components play a significant part in the functionality of the structure. In order to operate and maintain these structures, skilled sheet metal workers and fabricators are needed.

Both residential and commercial projects and structures require the use of sheet metal. Different types of structures call for different sheet metal building components. The type of components differ depending on the type of structure (e.g. residential or commercial) as well depending on the type of structure and its use (e.g. homes, churches, or government buildings).

Commercial projects may incorporate fabrication of specialty sheet metal duct work. They may also incorporate sheet metal roof trim specifically designed to meet the needs of the building and its use. These types of building components may come in larger quantities than those found on residential projects specifically because of the size of the overall project.

Residential projects typically include sheet metal trim pieces for capping fascias as well as some roof system trim pieces. Window trim and other specialty sheet metal components may be required as well. Residential trim is typically fabricated on site with portable brakes depending on the quantity of trim needed.

The demand for quality sheet metal components and installations will continue to increase. As the demand grows there will be opportunities for continual growth including becoming a sheet metal estimator and possibly becoming an owner of a small business specializing in sheet metal services.